PHT: Former-Shark Nabokov sticking with NHL

Every once and a while, a pattern forms to give a day a theme. If this Friday is any indication, then today might be Big name KHL export returns to the NHL via Long Island Day. (We might need a little time to work out the kinks in that title, though.)

Moments ago, we discussed Alexei Yashins possible reunion with the New York Islanders. That situation has a long way to go before it becomes anything more than a clever negotiating ploy, but one other possible return of a KHL defector brings extra validity for a simple reason: that guy is already under contract with the Isles.

REWIND: Islanders hang Nabokov out to dry

In case the headline didnt give it away, were talking about former San Jose Sharks goalie Evgeni Nabokov. James Mirle reports that the goalies agent Don Meehan confirmed what was discussed in May: Nabokov is primed to play in the NHL during the 2011-12 season even in the unlikely case that hell play in net for the Islanders.
He will be in the NHL this season, Meehan said.Where he will play, however, remains the biggest question.The Islanders already have veterans Al Montoya and Rick DiPietro and youngsters Kevin Poulin, Anders Nilsson and Mikko Koiskinen all vying for roles in the organization. Given his contract and experience, Nabokov would seem to be a good fit with plenty of other teams and could have some trade value, which appears to be the route the Islanders will go.That said, if DiPietros health remains a question and they want to keep their young netminders in the minors, Nabokov could play on Long Island after snubbing the organization.